Why Check for Air Leaks Before Warm Weather Arrives?

Most people investigate ways to save money on groceries, gasoline, or a new car purchase_. But are you taking advantage of savings that could help improve your home comfort and energy efficiency?_ Did you know that 25% of your home’s heat escapes through small cracks and holes?

The first thing homeowners should consider when spring finally arrives are if there are any air leaks in their homes. Air sealing is a vital step towards improving home comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your home energy bills. Air penetrates and escapes your home through holes and cracks causing your HVAC system to work harder and longer. This will make your home too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. By eliminating these issues, you will feel more comfortable as you start saving money.

Some common air sealing locations to identify inside and outside your home include:

• All exterior corners

• Outdoor water faucets

• Where siding and chimneys meet

• Electrical outlets

• Door and window frames

• Fireplace dampers

• Attic hatches

• Vents and fans

• Weatherstripping around doors

• Electrical and gas service entrances

The 3 main areas of concern where air leakage is the greatest concern are:

• Attics – Air escapes the house from here more than anywhere else

• Basements – When air leaks out, it is usually replaced by air coming in on lower levels of the house

• Ducts – Leaks in the ducts will cause your HVAC system to run longer to reach that comfortable temperature you want.

The most common and quickest ways that can help save on your energy bills is to caulk, seal, and weatherstrip all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside. The best time to do this is late spring and early fall because most sealing materials adhere best when weather is above 60 degrees F.

By taking the time to ensure that your home is properly sealed and insulated, you will save money on your energy bills and guarantee that you and your family stay cool and comfortable all summer long. To learn more Hutchinson Plumbing Heating Cooling Energy Services and how we can make sure your home stays cool all throughout the summer, please give us a call at 866-953-8728.